Texas Longhorns Ambassadors: A Glimpse Behind the Scenes

The ambassadors arrived directly from the airport via police escort. A 30 minute drive, or less with the escort, from the airport. Texas Longhorns Anthony Hill Jr., Arch Manning, and Michael Taaffe arrived at the Omni Hotel in downtown Atlanta. They made their way to a 4th floor private secluded area that overlooked downtown. About 15 media members from Texas surrounded the area around a large SEC logo where Steve Sarkisian would stand and field questions.

The bright sun beamed through to be the perfect spotlight on the Texas ambassadors.

First, Steve Sarkisian stepped into the circle just minutes after Texas has received word a 5-star linebacker recruit from Georgia had committed to Texas. Of course, Sarkisian will not be permitted to talk about it because of NCAA rules, though it was somewhat prophetic.

Sarkisian fielded what seemed like a hundred questions from just 15 media folks. They rapid fired question after question at him. Many about Arch Manning, others about linebackers, and some on different player groups.

We asked Sarkisian Why these men, the ambassadors? Here is his response.

Anthony Hill Jr.

We met with Anthony Hill Jr. If you were ever in a bad mood or having a terrible day, watch Anthony Hill Jr. His nickname is ‘Ant,’ short for Anthony. Hill is the happiest person you will ever meet. His joy for life, the game of football, Texas, and other people is contagious.

What does Hill think of being an ambassador?

Michael Taaffe

Then, we talked with Michael Taaffe and he completely dismantled us with what he said about his tie. We stood there. We were ready to jump in and ask a question. We noticed his burnt orange tie with some lettering on it.

Taaffe is a first class man.

Arch Manning

Arch Manning is a down to earth college kid. Comfortable in his own skin, humble, aware, funny, kind, thoughtful, and uses his celebrity status to uplift and serve others.

We did not ask Manning about being an ambassador, but something more profound. The entire world is focused on Arch Manning. Many stories are going to be written about him. The media and world will put him under a microscope. Who should we not forget to mention when we mention his name? As he achieves greatness, who helped him become great?

Manning lifted his hand and pointed toward the window and said, “Him.” Michael Taaffe was standing over by the window. Listen to what Manning shared about how Taaffe has helped him.